Red’s Baja Trip Report 2025

Roosters, Dorado & the Perfect Play Hard / Relax Hard Getaway

This trip was a first in more ways than one. It was the first time my wife, Stephanie, and I hosted a trip together, our first time chasing Roosterfish and Dorado, and our first experience using chum in the salt. And what a week to dive in—according to our outfitter, it was one of the best Roosterfish weeks they could remember.

The Baja hosted trip is designed perfectly for those who want to play hard on the water and relax hard in the afternoon. Most days, we fished from 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM, then returned to the resort for beachfront lounging, pool time, fresh food, and strong drinks. It’s a rhythm that delivers both adventure and rest—and the 2025 crew leaned all the way in.

Day 1: Arrival + First Look

Travel into Baja went smoothly, and once we had everyone accounted for, we loaded up for the scenic two-hour drive to the resort. Midway through, we made a stop at a local market—cold drinks, snacks, and all the Baja essentials to stock our rooms for the week.

After checking in and settling into our rooms, we gathered for a welcome dinner of fresh fish tacos and margaritas, and met with the guides for our first briefing. For many (including us), this was the first time targeting Roosterfish on the fly, and the excitement in the room was palpable. We prepped gear, talked through the chum strategy, and went to bed with butterflies for the next morning.

Day 2: Rooster Madness + Yacht Rendezvous

After a 6:00–7:30 breakfast, we hit the water—and the Roosters hit back.

I had the opportunity to fish with one of the outfitters, who quickly coached me up on how to approach this unique saltwater game. When we got to our first spot, it was on fire—every boat had a rod bent, and the Roosters were in a feeding frenzy.

Many of us finished the morning near a point known as "The Lighthouse," where the bite stayed strong. There were plenty of Jacks and another big highlight—a Grande Rooster (50+ pounds) landed by one of our guests. Our boat added a nice Dorado to the mix, and by 2:00 PM, we were back at the resort, salty and smiling.

That night, the beachfront came alive with a Yacht Rendezvous. Music, incredible food, and top-shelf drinks made it a night to remember.

Day 3: Split Missions + More Grander Roosters

By Day 3, our group had split up to chase different water and different fish. No matter where we went, Roosters were on the hunt. The only problem? The dreaded needlefish. They swarmed some of the chum lines, forcing anglers to pick their shots and time casts perfectly.

Despite the challenge, many fish were landed—highlighted by two more Grande Roosters brought to hand by mid-morning. Meanwhile, the non-anglers took a side trip to La Paz, exploring the local town, enjoying shops and cafes, and soaking up the culture and coastal scenery.

Day 4: Double Dates & the Fish of the Trip

Day 4 is what we call “Double-Date Day”—a chance for anglers to bring their partners along and share a day on the water. Stephanie and I teamed up with Mike and Janet Thompson, and by mid-morning, we’d all hooked into Roosters.

Then came the moment.

A massive Rooster began feeding nearby, and I got the cast off. The fish ate just 15 feet from the boat, and the fight was on. It was my first Grande Rooster, and it gave me a three-hour crash course in humility. I learned when to lean, when to give, and when to breathe. When we finally brought the fish in, the guide estimated it at 70–80 pounds—easily the fish of the trip, and maybe of my lifetime. What made it even more special was that everyone in the boat played a role in landing that fish. It was a true team win.

Day 5: Doubled Up + Tamale Time

Stephanie and I paired up again on Day 5 and had another great morning. The Roosters were active early, and we were rewarded for getting out ahead of the pack. At one point, we had a double hook-up on Roosters, which felt like a scene out of a dream.

Later in the morning, we tried targeting Jacks, but it was clear they’d already been well-fed by the morning chum lines. Still, the early bite was worth it.

Back at the resort, several of us joined a local cooking class where we learned how to make Tamales from scratch. It was a great way to wind down—hands-on, delicious, and full of stories from the week so far.

Day 6: One More Cast + Group Cheers

On our final day of fishing, Stephanie wasn’t even tempted to skip the boat and relax. That’s how you know a trip is special—when the beach can’t compete with the fishing.

We headed out with Mike again, fishing with a new guide and fresh water. The morning delivered one last hit of classic Baja action—Roosters and Jacks that pulled hard and gave us a final send-off we won’t forget.

Meanwhile, the non-anglers boarded a Sea of Cortez water safari and got treated to whales, dolphins, and stunning views of the Baja coastline.

That evening, we gathered for one final group dinner, shared a toast, and took a group photo as the sun set on an incredible week. Several guests asked if we’d be hosting again next year. My answer? If I have the opportunity… absolutely.

Day 7: Departures + Reflections

No one was ready to leave, but Day 7 came anyway. We staggered our departures based on flights and travel schedules, saying goodbye with hugs, handshakes, and promises to return.

Travel went smoothly, and just like that, the 2025 Baja Trip was in the books.

This trip is truly one of the best values and experiences we offer at Red’s Fly Shop—from world-class fishing and local culture to lifelong friendships and moments that stay with you long after the tan fades.

We can’t wait to host again in 2026.